Marina & Cow Hollow Restaurants: What's New, Next And Need-To-Know

When one door closes, another door opens in San Francisco's ever-changing food scene, and the Marina/Cow Hollow area, with its many bars and restaurants, is no exception. For those eager to check out the latest changes, here's a guide to gastronomical updates in the area.

Bar Crenn Headed To Former Cellar Door

After a successful expansion to Hayes Valley with the opening of Petit Crenn in August of 2015, star chef Dominique Crenn is bringing a new project next-door to Atelier Crenn, the high-end restaurant where she made her name (and earned two Michelin stars along the way).

As the Chroniclereported last month, the former Cellar Door (3131 Fillmore St.) is set to become a Parisian-style wine bar called "Bar Crenn," which will feature biodynamic and natural wines, as well as French small plates designed as a casual alternative to Atelier Crenn's pricey tasting menu. Bar Crenn is targeting an April 2017 opening date.

Flores Mexican Restaurant Debuts on Union

Partnering with Luis Flores (chef/partner of Uno Dos Tacos) and Alejandro Morgan (Lolinda’s Executive Chef), Paganini and his team debuted Flores in the former Betelnut location in late November.

Photo by artist Marcial Cruz.

The menu offers a selection of Mexican dishes, from tacos to tostadas to ceviche and more, as well as a cocktail and beer menu and by-the-pitcher margarita option. Find Flores at 2030 Union St. (at Buchanan). Hours are Monday-Wednesday, 5pm-11pm, Thursday-Saturday, 5pm-midnight, and 11am-3pm for weekend brunch.

Ristobar Closed Until Further Notice

Gary Rulli’s classy Italian restaurant Ristobar (2300 Chestnut St.) has closed its doors for retrofitting, according to Inside Scoop. Expect construction to last through the end of February (at least); stay tuned for updates.

Ristobar is currently under construction.

Lightning Tavern Becomes Hollow Cow

Lightning Tavern (1875 Union St.) has been rebranded as "Hollow Cow," a more food-friendly version of the popular bar.

As noted by Eater, there's a new chef and management team in place. Chef Michael Ketchum brings his fine dining background to “simple, craveable, desirable” dishes like mushroom banh mi, ham and brie sandwiches, tiramisu French toast, and mac n' cheese with housemade noodles are just some of the staples with a spin that you can expect to find at the reimagined drinking hole (and yes, there are still plenty of drinks).

Blue Barn Expanding

Last but not least, salad hotspot Blue Barn is finally expanding, giving fans more room and more options.

Starting this month, Blue Barn customers have two choices: grab food to-go at the current location (2105 Chestnut St.) or sit and eat restaurant-style at the new location around the corner, where Barney’s Gourmet Hamburgers once was (3344 Steiner St.) Both locations will have the same menu.

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